John Sparrowhawk’s memories of the Oxford-Witney railway (Memory Lane, July 27) highlight what a short-sighted decision it was to close the line.
Few would argue that the Witney-Fairford section was worth saving but, on the Oxford-Witney section, we are now seeing the results of a lack of forward-thinking.
The powers-that-be at the time were concerned only with saving cash. No thought was given to the fact that the A40 would become so congested that no-one could move.
An Oxford-Witney railway would now be of great benefit had someone stopped to think.
I’m told that the Oxford-Bicester line might well have gone the same way had it not been for the need to send freight by rail to the Bicester Ordnance Depot.
Thankfully, someone saw sense and kept it open. Now we’re looking forward to a new express service to London starting in October and, longer-term, the opening of the East West Link.
PAUL JENKINS
Iffley Road
Oxford
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here